Monrovia, Liberia — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has exercised his constitutional authority to grant clemency to 38 inmates from correctional facilities across Liberia.
This decision, according to the Executive Mansion, reflects “a broader vision of rehabilitation and redemption, emphasizing the need for second chances within a fair and humane justice system.
”The decision, rooted in Chapter 6, Article 59 of the 1986 Liberian Constitution, was the result of a detailed review process ensuring fairness and accountability. The selection criteria were designed to prioritize inmates demonstrating potential for reintegration, including: Those who have served over half their sentences, individuals detained beyond their sentence due to minor unpaid restitution obligations and Elderly inmates or those suffering from terminal illnesses.
Only individuals with commendable conduct during incarceration were considered, while individuals convicted of capital offenses or serious felonies were excluded, a statement from the Executive Mansion revealed.
Among those granted clemency were 37 Liberian nationals and one foreign national from China, comprising 37 men and one woman. All were convicted of non-capital, non-sexual offenses. More than half of these individuals were held at Monrovia Central Prison, with others spread across facilities nationwide.
The statement added that the clemency initiative underscores President Boakai’s belief in the transformative power of rehabilitation and the societal benefits of giving individuals a chance to rebuild their lives. It aligns with a broader commitment to strengthening the country’s justice system to be more equitable, inclusive, and reflective of human values.Commenting on the decision, President Boakai stated “By extending clemency, we affirm the belief that individuals can be redeemed and contribute positively to society. A justice system that fosters rehabilitation is one that strengthens the nation.
“The clemency process involved close collaboration between the judiciary, the Ministry of Justice, and other stakeholders. This partnership ensured a meticulous and equitable review process, reflecting Liberia’s commitment to fairness and the rule of law.
This initiative serves as a powerful message about the value of justice paired with mercy. By prioritizing rehabilitation, the government demonstrates its dedication to creating opportunities for those who have paid their debt to society.
As Liberia moves forward, this clemency act is a significant milestone in the ongoing journey to build a justice system that is not only firm but also compassionate, offering hope and second chances to deserving individuals.
Joseph Daniels reports for OK FM Liberia as Executive Mansion Correspondent. With a vested interest in making the voices of people from different walks of life heard, he has covered investigative stories relating to education, health, the environment, corruption, and violence against women and girls, among others. He graduated from the United Methodist University with a Bachelor of Art Degree in Mass Communications in 2020. Joseph is also a fellow at New Narratives, a non-profit organization helping media deliver independent, truthful information to its people so they can make informed decisions.
